Happy Memorial Day, SEers! Today’s post will be brief, as you’re likely unwinding with family and friends, at least those of you in the States. For our friends elsewhere, I hope your day is equally enjoyable.
Although this holiday inspires thoughts of plump hot dogs and juicy hamburgers on the grill, let’s not forget it was originally envisioned as a time to reflect on those who gave their lives in the service of our country.
“In memory of many, in honor of all.”
What a powerful message in so few words!
Originally called Decoration Day, the holiday was first observed on May 30, 1868 when flowers were placed on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers in Arlington National Cemetery. Our nation was struggling to heal after the Civil War, and by “decorating” the graves of the fallen with flowers, it was a way to honor those who had perished and keep their memories alive. It wasn’t until 1971 that Memorial Day became an official federal holiday.
May your time be blessed with family, friends, and fun. We are eternally grateful and indebted to those who lost their lives in the service of our country—and to those who protect us today—so that we may enjoy such freedoms. Wishing all of you a safe and treasured holiday.
Sorry I’m a little late to the party, but this is a great reminder of what our forebears, and maybe those not so far back on the family tree, gave for their country. Our country. May we all work to preserve the freedoms we’ve achieved. Happy belated Memorial Day!
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That’s a beautiful comment, Julie. We’re always glad to have you drop by whenever you have time.
Hoping your holiday was wonderful too!
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Reblogged this on When Angels Fly.
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Thank you kindly!
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Welcome!
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A small Memorial Day parade goes down our street, in front of our house, every year. People line the sidewalks. The American Legion always passes out flags and marches in it. A nice way to start the official holiday.
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Judi, that sounds wonderful. What an awesome start to the holiday, especially with the American Legion participating!
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Well done, Mae.
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Thank you, John. Happy Memorial Day!
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Well said, Mae! We are a free nation only because, throughout our history, brave men and women have risked everything to protect our country. May we always remember them, and honor them for their sacrifices.
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Wonderfully said, Marica and so true. I hope you enjoy your Memorial Day!
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Reblogged this on Archer's Aim and commented:
Happy Memorial Day everyone!
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Thank you!
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You are welcome, Mae.
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A lovely tribute, Mae.
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Thank you, Natalie! 🙂
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Wishing everyone a safe and blessed day, one hopefully spent with family and friends while still marking the importance and solemnity of the occasion.
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A fabulous wish, Staci. Wishing you a wonderful Memorial Day in return!
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Excellent post, Mae. Thanks for the historical background which always puts the present in a clearer perspective. Have a peaceful and happy day.
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Thank you, John. I’m glad you found the background interesting. Sending wishes your way for a peaceful and happy day as well!
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Yes, interesting – so much so that I used it on tomorrow’s post, and gave you credit. Thanks, Mae!
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That’s awesome, John. Thank YOU!! 🙂
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An interesting post, Mae. I didn’t know how Memorial Day stated in the US. Thanks for sharing and enjoy your holiday.
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Thank you, Robbie. I’m glad I could share 🙂
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I’m shuffling through airports today, but I’ll bet I can find a burger or dog somewhere. Have a great holiday everyone.
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Have a safe trip, Craig, and enjoy your day!
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Thanks, Mae.
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We should always remember those who served and those who died for our country. Great post, Mae!
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Thanks, Joan. It’s an important day, especially given the pulse of the world these days.
Enjoy your holiday!
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I didn’t know when memorial day had started in the US, so thanks for this, Mae! Have a lovely day, everyone! 🙂
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Glad you found the post interesting, Harmony. Wishing you a wonderful day as well!
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as long as it isn’t only about the juice hamburgers or another official holiday to be ticked off the calendar, as long as people, especially young ones are taught that they live free now due to the sacrifice of brave men and women in history, it is great!
Let the memory of those no longer in the world of the living be honored and kept alive! May their souls rest in eternal peace!
Carmen
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Lovely sentiments Carmen.
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A wonderful expression of thoughts, Carmen. I couldn’t agree more.
Thank you for sharing and enjoy your day today!
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